ointment
nounUK /ˈɔɪntm(ə)nt/ · US /ˈɔɪn(t)m(ə)nt/
Etymology A later form (as if oint + -ment) of Middle English oinement, borrowed from Old French oignement (“an anointing”), from oigner, oindre, ongier (“to anoint”), from Latin ung(u)ō (“I anoint”), from Proto-Indo-European *h₃engʷ- (“to smear, anoint”). Partly displaced native Old English sealf, whence modern salve.
1
Medicine, Sciences A viscous preparation of oils and/or fats, usually containing medication, used as a treatment or as an emollient.
- The doctor prescribed an antibiotic ointment for the wound.
- She applied a soothing herbal ointment to her dry skin.
2
A substance used to anoint, as in religious rituals.